Athletics agree to terms with Durazo

OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Erubiel Durazo, the centerpiece of the Oakland Athletics' offseason retooling, on Tuesday agreed to a one-year deal.

Financial terms of the pact were not disclosed. Durazo, who made $375,000 in 2002, was eligible for arbitration.

The Athletics acquired the oft-injured first baseman from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a four-team deal on Dec. 15 and plan to bat him in the middle of their lineup. Oakland also will have the option of letting Durazo, who never has played more than 92 games in a season, serve as the designated hitter.

Durazo hit .261 with 16 homers and 48 RBI in 222 at-bats for Arizona in 2002 and is a career .278 hitter with 47 home runs and 149 RBI in 748 at-bats.

Oakland General Manager Billy Beane made no secret of his desire to add Durazo, hoping the 28-year-old slugger finally can stay healthy. Durazo joins a lineup that is built around slugging infielders Miguel Tejada and Eric Chavez.